Outdoor Education is a key component of the UWC Adriatic experience, nurturing resilience, teamwork, environmental stewardship, and personal growth.
Camping trip to Forni Di Sopra for our second-years students.
Outdoor Education is a key component of the UWC Adriatic experience, nurturing resilience, teamwork, environmental stewardship, and personal growth.
Outdoor Education has always been central to UWC’s holistic approach to learning. The programme aims to immerse students in nature, develop crucial life skills, and forge meaningful connections with each other and the world around them.
During their camping trip to Forni Di Sopra, our students engaged in a diverse range of activities that challenged them physically while fostering collaboration, environmental awareness, and cultural exploration.
To accommodate different skill levels, the trip was divided into three groups—Essential, Woodpeckers, and Adventure—each offering a different level of hiking difficulty.
While the students in the Adventure group completed the Malga Tragonia hike (covering over 15 km), those in the Woodpeckers group took the Som Picol chairlift to Forni and visited Malga Varmost, where they learned directly from the owner about alpine agriculture. Finally, the Essential group explored the Tagliamento River with a local guide and participated in a workshop on plants, essential oils, and phytocosmetics, gaining insight into sustainable practices and the importance of respecting nature.
The camping trip offered immersive experiences designed to connect students with both the environment and each other. Group hikes, team-based challenges, and shared responsibilities—such as setting up camp—were integral to the programme.
A highlight of the trip was the Tagliamento walk, where students explored the area’s historical, geological, and cultural significance. This hands-on learning deepened their understanding of the region’s heritage and strengthened their connection to the environment.
A unique feature of the trip was the “Disconnect to Reconnect” initiative, where students left their mobile phones behind to fully engage with their surroundings and peers, fostering deeper communication, personal reflection, and stronger bonds.
This camping trip was made possible by the dedication of 15 members of our staff, including Enea Zaramella, the Outdoor Activities Coordinator. Their guidance was crucial in helping students navigate various challenges, ensuring a safe and meaningful experience for all.
As we continue to develop and expand our outdoor education initiatives, we anticipate that there will be more experiences to prepare students to find their own path to success, strengthen their friendships, and develop their environmental stewardship.
